How to recognize a reliable webshop

Online shopping is convenient and fast, but unfortunately, there are also less reliable online stores. How do you know if you're dealing with a safe company? Below, you'll find the most important signs to look for before placing an order.

1. Clear contact details

A reliable online store always includes a phone number, email address, and (preferably) a physical address. This way, you know there's a real company behind the website, and you can contact them with any questions or problems. If this information is missing, or there's only a vague contact form, that's a red flag.

2. Check the company details

You can easily verify a company's legitimacy by checking its Chamber of Commerce (KvK) or VAT numbers. A reputable webshop will often include this information in the footer or on the contact page.

3. Transparent product information and conditions

Reliable online stores are clear about prices, delivery times, return policies, and warranties. If these details are missing, or are written in vague language, chances are the service will be disappointing.

4. Reliable payment methods

An online store that partners with well-known payment providers (iDEAL, Bancontact, PayPal, credit card) offers additional security. Be wary of online stores that only offer advance payment via bank transfer or even crypto payments – that could be a red flag.

5. Reviews and experiences of others

Search Google Reviews, Trustpilot, or social media for other customer experiences. Don't just look at the star ratings, but also at the content of the reviews: how do they respond to complaints, are the experiences current, and are they credible?

6. Active presence on social media

Many reliable online stores are active on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok. They showcase products, respond to questions, and provide updates. A lack of activity isn't necessarily suspicious, but it does represent a missed opportunity for trust.

7. Website quality and security

Take a critical look at the website itself: does everything work properly, are there no unusual spelling errors, and is there a lock icon in the address bar (https://)? That lock means your data is being sent securely.

8. Prices that are too good to be true

Is a product extremely cheap compared to other online stores? There's a good chance it's not. Use your common sense: "If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is."

Extra tip: trust your gut

Not sure? You can always place a small order first to test the webshop.

👉 With these tips you can judge for yourself whether a webshop is reliable.

At Gymwebshop, we prioritize transparency: our contact details are clearly displayed, we're registered with the Chamber of Commerce (KvK), and we offer secure payment methods. This way, you can be sure you're dealing with a reliable webshop.